Big tech companies like Apple, Google, Airbnb, X (formerly Twitter), Uber, and Meta are indeed exploring stablecoins, including USDC, for payments. Here's a breakdown:

- Apple: In talks with Circle, the issuer of USDC, to integrate stablecoin functionality into Apple Pay, potentially reducing transaction fees.

- Google: Accepting PayPal's PYUSD stablecoin for select clients and exploring stablecoin integration, with Google Cloud's Web3 lead calling stablecoins "one of the biggest upgrades to payments since the SWIFT network.

- Airbnb: Discussing stablecoin use with payment processor Worldpay and considering USDC to reduce high fees charged by credit card companies.

- X (formerly Twitter): Developing a payments app called X Money, with possible stablecoin integration, and in talks with Stripe about supporting stablecoin transactions.

- Uber: Exploring stablecoins for global transfers to reduce transaction costs, with CEO Dara Khosrowshahi confirming the company's interest.

- Meta: Reconsidering its stance on crypto payments after previously shelving its Diem project, with potential interest in stablecoins for international payments.$USDC